Chuck Bloom is a former publisher-owner-editor of several Texas community newspapers for more than 25 years before retiring, winning dozens of journalism awards and serving as former president of two regional press groups.

Thursday, September 29, 2011

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nominees still shameful

When my neck stiffens and my belly hurts, I either ate some bad food (as I did last night) … OR … the Rock and Roll hall of Fame nominees have been announced. In my case, both were inflictions.

I don’t know where and how this list is collated; don’t know who gets to choose (anyone actually FROM The Who?) or the process. But it stinks (or LOVE STINKS sang J. Geils Band).

It is a shame about the groups or singers omitted or how flashes in the pan (as will be discussed) get any recognition.

To trim the list to a proper class of five deserving inductees, one must begin by tossing out the names who you think will simply make for a good induction ceremony/concert. That means Guns ‘n Roses, who did ONE great album and was self-destructing on its initial national tour, is OUT! The Chili Peppers, who have some longevity to their claim but nothing of earth-shattering worth (meaning HOF ability) is OUT!

Donna Summer didn’t change music, neither did Eric B. and Rakim (sorry, can’t name a single tune they EVER did).

Here should be the final five: Heart, The Cure, The Spinners, War, Joan Jett. Next year for the Beastie Boys, Freddie King, Donovan (long deserving but when limited to five, it’s a tough call) and, one day, the late Laura Nyro, a songwriter of extraordinary prowess, should get in.

Heart is obvious – largest selling sister act in rock; The Cure was a seminal group from the 1980s and its music remains fresh today; War helped change the rhythm and style of “soul” and “funk” music; The Spinners were veritable hitmakers for two decades with a smooth, unmistakable style that oozed class; and Joan Jett helped usher punk rock into the American mainstream from The Runaways to The Blackhearts (if for having only recorded “I Love Rock and Roll,” she should be included).

And the annual question remains: why isn’t KISS on this list? Call them what you wish, but it’s been 30 years of music, 30 years of entertaining and touring and 30 years as one of the most popular bands in the world. Compared to some of the weak sisters already inducted, this remains a travesty!